This August, prepare for an extraordinary journey into the heart of creativity and boundless imagination with the premiere of “Harold and the Purple Crayon.” Following the release of its much-anticipated trailer, the film starring Zachary Levi and Zooey Deschanel promises to enchant audiences of all ages, exclusively in cinemas.
A Classic Tale Reimagined
At the core of this enchanting tale is Harold (portrayed by Zachary Levi), an adventurous soul with the unique ability to bring his drawings to life with his magical purple crayon. Transitioning from the confines of his book into the tangible world, Harold embarks on a thrilling odyssey that teaches him the complexities of real life. Alongside his friends, Harold discovers that his purple crayon triggers more whimsical escapades than anticipated, challenging them to harness the power of imagination to safeguard both their reality and the fantastical world they cherish.
“Harold and the Purple Crayon” is more than a movie; it’s an invitation to dream. With its groundbreaking visual effects, the film invites audiences to visualize the power of imagination like never before. From whimsical landscapes to the vibrant hues of Harold’s crayon, each frame is a testament to the boundless creativity that defines this iconic story.
Join the Adventure
Be part of this magical journey as “Harold and the Purple Crayon” makes its debut in cinemas across the Philippines this August. Brought to you by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, this film is a celebration of creativity, friendship, and the endless possibilities that imagination holds.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure. Connect with us and share your excitement using the hashtag #HaroldAndThePurpleCrayon @columbiapicph. Let the journey begin!
Exhuma, the new mystery thriller directed by Jang Jae-Hyun (Svaha: The Sixth Finger, The Priests), has topped the box office in Korea for the fourth consecutive weekend. Boasting a stellar cast led by Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hai-jin and Lee Do-hyun, Exhuma is now showing in Philippine cinemas.
Since its release in Korea on February 22, Exhuma has grossed $68 million (USD) and is currently the highest-grossing Korean film of 2024. According to data from KoBiz, a box office tracking service operated by the Korean Film Council (Kofic), the film has had 9.5 million admissions as of March 19.
Exhuma tells the story of two talented shamans, a geomancer and a mortician tasked to find a mysterious grave – and unknowingly unleash a malevolent force buried underneath.
Find out what lies beneath the grave in Exhuma, now showing in Philippine cinemas. #ExhumaMoviePH #Exhuma @columbiapicph
After suffering from serial paranormal events, a wealthy family living in LA summons a young rising shaman duo Hwa Rim (Kim Go-Eun) and Bong Gil (Lee Do-Hyun) to save the newborn of the family. Once they arrive, Hwa Rim senses a dark shadow of their ancestor has latched on the family in a so-called “Grave Calling.” In order to exhume the grave and relieve the ancestor, Hwa Rim seeks help from top-notch geomancer Sang Deok (Choi Min-Shik) and mortician Yeong Geun (Yoo Hae-Jin). To their dismay, the four find the grave at a shady location in a remote village in Korea. Unaware of the consequences, the exhumation is carried out, unleashing a malevolent force buried underneath.
Exhuma is now showing in Philippine cinemas, distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. #ExhumaMoviePH #Exhuma @columbiapicph
Prepare to be thrust back into George Miller’s legendary dystopian universe with the release of the new trailer for “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga“. Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne, and Tom Burke, this summer promises an action-packed adventure that will take audiences on a wild ride through the iconic Wasteland.
Journey to the Origins of a Warrior
“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” delves deep into the backstory of the titular character, exploring her beginnings in a world ravaged by war and desolation. Directed by the Academy Award-winning visionary George Miller, and written alongside “Mad Max: Fury Road” co-writer Nico Lathouris, the film promises to be a breathtaking expedition filled with danger, tyranny, and the quest for redemption.
A Cast Set to Dazzle
With Anya Taylor-Joy taking on the fierce role of Furiosa, and supported by the talents of Chris Hemsworth, Alyla Browne, and Tom Burke, this film is set to showcase performances that blend raw intensity with deep emotional resonance. Produced by Miller and his longtime partner, Doug Mitchell, under the banner of Kennedy Miller Mitchell, “Furiosa” is the culmination of storytelling mastery and cinematic excellence.
Mark Your Calendars: May 22, 2024
The wait is almost over. “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on May 22, 2024. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, this film is not just a return to a beloved universe, but a new chapter that expands the Mad Max lore in thrilling, unexpected ways.
Be Part of the Adventure
As the new trailer sets the stage for the epic saga to unfold, join the global conversation using #Furiosa on social media. Share your excitement, engage with fellow fans, and prepare for a cinematic journey that promises to be as unforgettable as it is groundbreaking.
Get ready for “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” – an action-packed adventure where destiny, determination, and the drive to overcome the odds converge in the vast, vibrant Wasteland. This is not just a movie; it’s an experience that will ignite the spirit of adventure in everyone who dares to embark on this journey.
Three years after the ghost-catching legacy was reignited with “Ghostbusters: Afterlife”, the specter-chasing saga continues with “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire“. Directed by Gil Kenan and produced by Jason Reitman, this latest installment promises a fusion of laughs, scares, and undying fun, reviving the spirit of the original films for both new audiences and devoted fans.
A Family Affair: Legacy & Innovation
Jason Reitman, stepping into his familial legacy with “Afterlife”, shared his vision for “Frozen Empire” with his father, Ivan Reitman, the original Ghostbusters’ guiding hand, in what would be their final story exchange. Co-written with Gil Kenan, “Frozen Empire” honors its roots while charting new terrains.
The Spectral Saga Continues
In “Frozen Empire”, the Spengler clan, alongside returning stars McKenna Grace, Paul Rudd, and Finn Wolfhard, reunite with the original ghostbusters at the iconic New York firehouse, now a nexus of ghost-busting innovation. The discovery of an ancient artifact sets them against an icy evil threatening to usher in a second Ice Age, challenging our heroes to blend old wisdom with new bravery.
Echoes of the Past, Voices of the Present
Dan Aykroyd, reprising his role as Ray Stantz, highlights the seamless narrative continuity and the genuine essence of camaraderie and cosmic confrontation that defined the original films. This blend of ordinary lives entwined with extraordinary encounters makes “Frozen Empire” a heartfelt homage to the series’ beginnings.
For the Love of Ghostbusting
Director Gil Kenan shares his personal journey with “Ghostbusters”, from childhood awe to creative inspiration. “Frozen Empire” seeks to recapture the series’ hallmark blend of thrills and laughter, offering a gateway for newcomers and a nostalgic trip for long-time admirers. Kenan’s vision celebrates the joyous, thrilling exploration of the supernatural, inviting audiences of all ages to partake in the ghost-busting adventure.
Mark Your Calendars
Prepare to re-enter the ghostly fray with “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire“, as it arrives in Philippine cinemas on April 10, thanks to Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, this latest chapter in the Ghostbusters legacy promises an enthralling mix of humor, horror, and heroism, proving once again that when it comes to saving the world from spectral threats, who you gonna call?
It’s another exciting week at the movies with a diverse lineup of films! Brace yourself for a spine-tingling experience with “Immaculate” and “Exhuma,” where horror meets mystery in tales of dark secrets and supernatural encounters. If animated adventures are more your style, join the charming duo in “Noah’s Ark: A Musical Adventure” as they navigate the floodwaters with catchy tunes and heartwarming camaraderie. For those seeking a blend of laughter and frights, “Pagpag 24/7” is here to deliver thrills and chills with its unique fusion of comedy and horror. And if adrenaline-pumping action is what you crave, look no further than “The Wild,” where betrayal and redemption collide in the world of underground boxing. Rounding off our lineup is the touching drama “White Bird: A Wonder Story,” offering a poignant tale of love and resilience set against the backdrop of wartime France. With such a diverse array of offerings, there’s no shortage of excitement at the movies this week!
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:
Prepare to be gripped by fear and suspense as “Immaculate” transports viewers into the heart of a chilling mystery. Follow Cecilia, portrayed by the talented Sydney Sweeney, as she embarks on a journey of faith and terror within the confines of an Italian convent. With secrets lurking in every shadow, this atmospheric thriller, led by Álvaro Morte and Benedetta Porcaroli, promises to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Step into a realm of supernatural horrors with “Exhuma,” a bone-chilling tale of ancestral curses and forbidden secrets. Witness the spine-tingling performances of Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, and Yoo Hai-jin as they confront malevolent forces from beyond the grave. Brace yourself for a journey into darkness as Hwa-rim and Bong-gil race against time to exorcise the sinister presence haunting a wealthy family in LA.
2024 • PG • 1 hr 35 mins ANIMATION, COMEDY, MUSIC BUY TICKETS
Get ready to embark on a whimsical musical adventure with “Noah’s Ark,” a delightful animation guaranteed to enchant audiences of all ages. Join Vini and Tito, voiced by Rodrigo Santoro and Alice Braga, as they weave a tapestry of harmony and friendship amidst the chaos of Noah’s flood. With toe-tapping tunes and heartwarming moments aplenty, this charming tale is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of laughs and scares with “Pagpag 24/7,” a comedy-horror hybrid that defies expectations at every turn. Follow the misadventures of two friends, portrayed by Danita Paner and Jerald Napoles, as they navigate the terrifying confines of a haunted convenience store. With a blend of humor and horror, this gem promises thrills, chills, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Brace yourself for high-octane action and intense drama in “The Wild,” a gripping narrative of friendship, betrayal, and redemption. Follow the journey of Woo-chul and Do-shik, portrayed by Park Sung-woong and Oh Dae-hwan, as they navigate the treacherous world of underground boxing. With pulse-pounding fight sequences and compelling performances, this adrenaline-fueled thriller is not to be missed.
Prepare to be moved by the poignant tale of “White Bird,” a heartfelt story of love, loss, and resilience set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied France. Follow the transformative journey of Julian Albans as he unravels the remarkable story of his Grandmère’s courage and compassion. With stirring performances from Ariella Glaser, Orlando Schwerdt, and Bryce Gheisar, this touching drama is sure to tug at the heartstrings.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still captivating audiences in theaters. Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:
That’s a wrap for this week’s new movie releases. So, don’t wait! Secure your tickets, grab your popcorn, and immerse yourself in the excitement of these new releases. As always, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on these must-see releases. Remember to check ClickTheCity for screening times and make your next movie-going experience unforgettable. Stay tuned for next week’s movie updates, and happy watching!
YOLO tells the story of Le Ying (played by Jia Ling), who has been staying at home for many years, doing nothing in particular. After graduating from college and working for a while, Le Ying chooses to withdraw from society, closing herself off from social circles, which she believes is the best way to “reconcile” with herself. Then one day, after several twists of fate, she decides to live life in a different way. In cautiously venturing into the outside world, Le Ying meets boxing coach Hao Kun (played by Lei Jia Yin), who just may change her life.
The film was written and directed by lead star Jia Ling, who became the highest-grossing female director in China in 2021 with her directorial debut film Hi, Mom, which, like YOLO, she also wrote and starred in.
YOLO, distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International, opens in Philippine cinemas on April 17. #YOLO
About YOLO
YOLO follows Le Ying (played by Jia Ling), an unemployed woman in her 30s who still lives with her parents until one day, she meets a boxing coach (played by Lei Jiayin ) who just may change her life.
Directed and written by: Jia Ling
Starring: Jia Ling, Lei Jiayin
Opening on April 17, 2024, YOLO is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #YOLO @columbiapicph
March marks the celebration of International Women’s Day, setting the perfect scene for a girl gang movie marathon. Lionsgate Play steps up with a curated selection that pays homage to the spirit, strength, and diversity of women through captivating narratives. Whether you’re in the mood for comedy, drama, or action, this lineup features heroines who lead with courage and resilience. So gather your closest friends, grab some snacks, and embark on a binge-watching spree that celebrates female empowerment and storytelling at its best.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUmdwCUASsU
P-Valley (2020)
P-Valley (2020) – A Gritty, Neon-Lit Drama Watch here Dive into the Mississippi Delta’s heart with P-Valley, a series that explores the lives of women at The Pynk strip club. With two seasons that tackle themes of race, gender, class, and more, this American drama offers a raw, immersive experience into the struggles and triumphs of its diverse characters.
Mama’s Affair (2022)
Mama’s Affair (2022) – A Tale of Motherhood and Dreams Watch here Discover the touching story of Mei-fung, a single mother and former talent manager who navigates the complexities of rekindling her career and balancing family life. Mama’s Affair is a poignant Hong Kong drama that delves into the challenges of pursuing personal fulfillment while upholding family responsibilities.
Little Women (2017)
Little Women (2017) – Timeless Coming-of-Age Story Watch here Revisit the beloved tale of the March sisters in this three-part BBC miniseries adaptation of Little Women. Journey with Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy as they transition from childhood to adulthood, facing life’s trials with grace and perseverance. Featuring an outstanding cast, this series breathes new life into Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel.
Atomic Blonde (2017)
Atomic Blonde (2017) – A Thrilling Spy Adventure Watch here Charlize Theron stars as Lorraine Broughton, a fearless MI6 agent navigating the dangerous landscape of Cold War Berlin. Atomic Blonde is a high-stakes thriller that showcases female strength and resilience, offering a riveting narrative filled with action and intrigue.
Run the World (2021)
Run the World (2021) – Friendship and Ambition in Harlem Experience the vibrant lives of four best friends pursuing their dreams in Harlem, New York. Run the World is a celebration of friendship, ambition, and the complexities of love and career in the modern world. This American comedy series is a testament to the power of women supporting each other through life’s ups and downs.
Killing Eve (2018)
Killing Eve (2018) – A Darkly Captivating Thriller Delve into the twisted relationship between MI6 investigator Eve and assassin Villanelle in Killing Eve. This spy thriller explores themes of obsession and power, offering a unique narrative that blurs the lines between hunter and hunted. Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer deliver compelling performances in this critically acclaimed series.
Join the Celebration of Female Empowerment
Lionsgate Play invites you to celebrate International Women’s Day with these and more titles featuring bold heroines and empowering stories. Tune in, be inspired, and honor the awesomeness of women on screen.
The cinematic universe trembles once more as the colossal legends, Godzilla and Kong, emerge from the depths and shadows to grace the silver screen in “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire.” Set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on March 30, this monumental sequel promises an unparalleled IMAX adventure, offering fans a front-row seat to the most breathtaking Titan battle yet. Secure your tickets now and witness these iconic behemoths like never before at www.godzillaxkong.com.ph.
A New Threat Rises
In the heart of Hollow Earth, a sinister challenge brews, threatening not just the Titans’ reign but the very fabric of humanity. “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” finds our revered monsters in an unprecedented alliance, battling against the shadows of an enigmatic new foe. Filmed exclusively for IMAX, this epic saga brings the awe-inspiring action and the captivating world of the Monsterverse to life in jaw-dropping detail and scale.
Behind the Scenes with the Stars
The dynamic duo, Rebecca Hall and Brian Tyree Henry, return with electrifying performances under the visionary direction of Adam Wingard. His boundless enthusiasm and deep reverence for the Titan lore have infused the set with an infectious spirit of discovery and wonder.
Brian Tyree Henry, embodying Bermie Hayes, shares, “I saw brand new stuff every day. It makes a huge difference when your leader is a fan of this kind of universe, and is excited by the discoveries of what could possibly be, what could unfold. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I think the fans are going to be very excited.”
Rebecca Hall, our Dr. Ilene Andrews, echoes this sentiment, “You get this belief that he has a sense of what the film’s going to be, but you also get to have a really good time on set, because he has this exuberance that is just intoxicating. He does have an inner 10-year-old, and he’s there all the time watching everything. He directs with that enthusiasm, and you know you’ve done well, because you can hear him chuckling.”
The Monsterverse Expands
Kaylee Hottle returns as Jia Andrews, diving deeper into the rich tapestry of the Monsterverse. “For me to be back in the Monsterverse, it’s really, really nice to be back. It’s really exciting. Audiences will see even more action and more adventures. On this film, we went to the Daintree Rainforest. There were leeches, crocodiles, snakes, cassowaries. But it was beautiful,” she says.
About the Film
“Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” elevates the saga, introducing us to unseen depths of these ancient beings’ lore, exploring their origins, and the mystical Skull Island. Directed by Adam Wingard, with a stellar script by Terry Rossio, Simon Barrett, and Jeremy Slater, this chapter promises to bind these Titans and humanity closer than ever.
The ensemble cast, featuring Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Dan Stevens, Kaylee Hottle, Alex Ferns, and Fala Chen, brings this tale to vivid life. Produced by a renowned team and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures in the Philippines, “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” is set to become a cinematic landmark.
Mark your calendars for March 30, 2024, and prepare for an IMAX journey into the heart of the Monsterverse. “Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire” is not just a film; it’s an experience that promises to redefine the boundaries of cinematic storytelling and spectacle. Tickets are on sale now; secure yours today and be part of history.
As horror films go, Jang Jae-hyun’s ‘Exhuma’ takes a different approach to frightening its audience. At a 134 minutes, director and screenwriter Jang Jae-hyun takes his time to unravel his rather simple story of an exorcism gone horribly wrong. He presents his characters – the charming and very competent young shamans Hwa-rim (Kim Go Eun) and Bong-gil (Lee Do Hyun) – as confident, maybe even cocky, as they take a case involving a rich Korean-American client living in Los Angeles, whose baby seems haunted by an evil spirit. In their initial inspection, they discover that the haunting spirit is an old one, one that is passed from generation to generation and that the ancestral spirit may be back in Korea. This powerful spirit, one they call ‘A Grave’s Call,’ requires a bigger team and they employ a veteran geomancer, Sang-duk (Choi Min-sik) and his partner Yeong Geun (Yoo Hae Jin) to join the ritual. It’s only when the four spiritualists arrive at an unmarked grave atop a deserted mountain that they realize this is far more sinister and evil than they could have imagined.
This whole set up takes over half an hour to put things in motion. What makes it so riveting and fascinating to watch is the way that tension and dread pervades each scene without spilling out into cheesy cheap scares. Director Jang allows his characters – Hwa-rim and company – to be so serious about the work and yet calm and casual outside of it. It shows off their familiarity with each other and uses their relationship dynamics to establish them as human beings that we come to like as an audience. We know something bad is coming and now, 40 minutes into the movie, we like these characters a lot that we don’t want anything bad to happen to them.
Without any huge frightening scenes, director Jang builds the tension using very detailed, very precise dramatization of the shamanistic rituals for cleansing spirits and for exhuming the buried dead to transfer to more auspicious grave sites. Those familiar with these rituals from watching Kdrama will know there’s a lot of music, chanting, and dancing and the film isn’t shy of showing the whole process and captures it for its full cinematic appeal. Kim Go Eun and Lee Do Hyun are exquisite and all they are doing is dancing or dancing with knives (Kim) or drumming and chanting (Lee) but they do it with such conviction and the camera work, quick editing, and exquisite sound designs turns each into such a spectacle that you are overwhelmed by the severity of the rite. It underscores the seriousness of the undertaking. Without showing a single scary image, the ritual alone in full display is enough to create this feeling of dread and fear. Somehow it manages to impress upon you that “damn, I hope it works” and you are actually more attuned to the outcome of all of this.
And when things go south, it takes an unexpected turn. Past the one-hour mark, you realise the story is much deeper, much richer in its exploration of South Korea’s history. This is not just some simple exorcism movie. It’s about past trauma that has yet to be resolved.
It is in the simplicity and the straightforward execution of the narrative that makes ‘Exhuma’ such a joy to watch. It is frightening but it does not rely on jump scares for it. It does so by creating set ups, allowing us to recognize the danger and see it unfold within the story. It does not try to surprise us. Instead, it allows us to follow it as it compounds and compounds.
Unfortunately, the final act feels drawn out and over-extended. Everything leading up to it is so strong, so exciting. When the grand finale happens, there’s a lot of unnecessary talking, actions are repeated, and the pacing suffers immensely. It could have been fast and quick but Jang Jae-hyun is having too much fun with his elements all coming together. But the final image still makes it landing and does not undermine all the fantastic work that set everything up.
‘Exhuma’ is an intelligent horror film that takes its time to build its horror and dresses it up in the full effects of Korean shamanism. It’s culturally and historically rich and steeped in its folklore. The cast, especially Kim Go Eun, is terrific and it can be surprising in its narrative turns.
My Rating:
Exhuma premieres this March 20. Check screening times and buy tickets here.
Exhuma, directed by Jang Jae-Hyun (Svaha: The Sixth Finger, The Priests), tells the story of two talented shamans, a geomancer and a mortician tasked to find a mysterious grave – and unknowingly unleash a malevolent force buried underneath.
A box office record breaker in Korea, Exhuma opens in Philippine cinemas March 20. #ExhumaMoviePH #Exhuma
About Exhuma
After suffering from serial paranormal events, a wealthy family living in LA summons a young rising shaman duo Hwa Rim (Kim Go-Eun) and Bong Gil (Lee Do-Hyun) to save the newborn of the family. Once they arrive, Hwa Rim senses a dark shadow of their ancestor has latched on the family in a so-called “Grave Calling.” In order to exhume the grave and relieve the ancestor, Hwa Rim seeks help from top-notch geomancer Sang Deok (Choi Min-Sik,) and mortician Yeong Geun (Yoo Hae-Jin). To their dismay, the four find the grave at a shady location in a remote village in Korea. Unaware of the consequences, the exhumation is carried out, unleashing a malevolent force buried underneath.
Exhuma opens in Philippine cinemas on March 20, distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. #ExhumaMoviePH #Exhuma
